Obituary: Remembering Catherine McErlean

Catherine McErlean is fondly remembered as her birthday approaches on March 20. 

Sadly, Catherine is no longer with us but she lives on as treasured memories of her remain forever. 

I first met Catherine 40 years ago when we worked together in the Employment Service Office in Derry. 

Catherine was so easy to work with and she always went that extra mile to help the public and also her workmates. 

Highly respected by staff and management, Catherine was dedicated in her role. 

After relocating to the Jobmarket in Waterloo Place, Catherine was appointed Jobclub Leader, a post she thoroughly enjoyed. 

She helped countless customers to find work. She then worked with training providers and community groups to ensure high standards were met before transferring to Trading Standards which proved to be a very fulfilling role for her. 

Catherine moved from Maghera to Newtowncunnigham in Donegal after she married Terence. 

She made this her home and lived very happily on their farm while continuing to work in Derry. 

She travelled back to Maghera very regularly, particularly to care for her parents. 

She had a great love for her family in Maghera and never forgot her roots. 

She was a mother of three, Connor, Ryan and Aine, and was such a fantastic mum, smiling so proudly when she spoke of their achievements. 

Catherine loved to show photos of her children and she was such a great source of strength and support to them. She became a granny and life was good.

Catherine had always hoped to help care for her grandchildren who lived very close but unfortunately she became ill quite suddenly. Catherine was very hopeful she would beat her illness but, sadly, she lost her brave battle on January 18. 

She was a kind, caring, compassionate and sincere person who was quiet and unassuming. Catherine had a fantastic outlook and a great zest for life. She loved to travel and  had a wonderful sense of adventure. Catherine was a staunch Derry fan, travelling to Gaelic matches all over the country.

She loved the banter and could always hold her own in any discussions or debates after matches. She knew the true meaning of faith and Christianity, always doing her best for others. Very sadly missed by her famiy and many friends. She lives on in our hearts and minds. Such a priviledge to know a truly special lady.

Thinking of those you left behind and hoping they find comfort and strength in the tough days ahead.